Orlando Immigration Court

The Orlando Immigration Court is a federal court that handles immigration cases in the state of Florida, specifically in the central region. Located in the city of Orlando, the court is part of the U.S. Department of Justice's Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) and is responsible for conducting hearings and making decisions on various immigration-related matters. The court's jurisdiction covers a large area, including 34 counties in central Florida, and it has become an important institution for individuals and families seeking to navigate the complex U.S. immigration system.

Overview of the Orlando Immigration Court

The Orlando Immigration Court is one of the busiest immigration courts in the United States, with a large caseload and a significant backlog of pending cases. The court has a team of experienced immigration judges who are responsible for presiding over hearings and making decisions on a wide range of immigration cases, including asylum applications, deportation proceedings, and bond hearings. The court also has a support staff of clerks, interpreters, and other personnel who assist with the day-to-day operations of the court.

Types of Cases Heard by the Orlando Immigration Court

The Orlando Immigration Court hears a variety of immigration cases, including:

• Asylum applications: The court hears cases from individuals seeking protection from persecution in their home countries.
• Deportation proceedings: The court conducts hearings to determine whether an individual should be removed from the United States.
• Bond hearings: The court sets bond amounts for individuals who are being detained by immigration authorities.
• Cancellation of removal: The court hears cases from individuals seeking to cancel their removal from the United States.
• Adjustment of status: The court hears cases from individuals seeking to adjust their immigration status to become lawful permanent residents.

The court also handles other types of immigration cases, including withholding of removal and deferral of removal under the Convention Against Torture. In addition, the court may conduct hearings on motions to reopen or reconsider previously decided cases.

Statistics and Performance Metrics

The Orlando Immigration Court has a significant caseload, with thousands of cases pending at any given time. According to the EOIR’s annual report, the court received over 10,000 new cases in 2020, and it had a backlog of over 20,000 cases pending at the end of the year. The court’s asylum grant rate is around 20%, which is lower than the national average. The court’s deportation rate is around 70%, which is higher than the national average.

Preparation and Representation

Individuals with cases pending before the Orlando Immigration Court should be prepared to present their cases in a clear and concise manner. This may involve gathering evidence, preparing witnesses, and developing a strong legal strategy. It is highly recommended that individuals seek the advice of an experienced immigration attorney who is familiar with the court’s procedures and practices.

Best Practices for Success

To increase the chances of a successful outcome, individuals should:

1. Seek the advice of an experienced immigration attorney.
2. Gather all relevant evidence and documentation.
3. Prepare witnesses and develop a strong legal strategy.
4. Attend all scheduled hearings and appointments.
5. Be honest and truthful in all interactions with the court and immigration authorities.

By following these best practices and seeking the advice of an experienced immigration attorney, individuals can navigate the complex immigration process and achieve the best possible outcome.